How the names 'Mini' and 'Cooper' came together

What's in a name? In this case, one of the most iconic brands ever conceived.

The Mini Cooper has one of the most recognizable names and shapes of any car on the road, and the story of how the names 'Mini' and 'Cooper' came together is a good one. Prior to joining forces with Mini, John Cooper was in the racing business, helping names like 'Moss' and 'McLaren' get their start. It makes sense, then, that the combination of Mini and Cooper has turned into such a legacy over the years.

The first real Mini Cooper debuted in 1961, and it destroyed pre-conceived notions about what a small car was capable of. In the XCAR film below, you'll hear Alex Goy's recounting of the original Mini's interesting run. He also has a little help in telling the story from a modern take on a John Cooper-style Mini. Watch the video to see if the new car lives up to the old name.